The Geneva Auto Show has a reputation for being the place for auto designers to display their most exotic work. In the case of Italy’s Pagani, known for its less than subtle approach to extreme automobiles, that means the 800 hp Zonda Revolucion.
Originally unveiled during Pagani's Vanishing Point 2013 gathering, the appearance at Geneva gave Gizmag a chance to get a closer look at the car that the automaker calls the "apex of the celebration of performance, technology and art applied to a track car" and which isn't only illegal for the street but will set your change purse back a cool US$3 million.
The limited edition Revolucion turning heads at this year's Geneva event is essentially a Zonda R on steroids. The car not only features acres upon acres of blue carbon fiber but also a custom tweaked 6.0 liter AMG Mercedes V12 capable of developing 800 hp and 538 lb.ft (730 Nm) of torque. These impressive figures give the track star a power-to-weight ratio of 748 hp per tonne or 1.34 kg/hp.
The Revolucion’s central monocoque, composed of carbon-titanium, ensures the thing is not only strong but light as it tips the scales at a mere 1,070 kg (2,358 lb). Performance figures for the Revolucion are similar to that of the Zonda R and Huayra from which the car takes its inspiration. The Revolucion is faster than the R from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) with a time of 2.6 seconds but both have identical top speeds of 350 km/h (217 mph).
Managing the Revolucion’s power is the job of a 6-speed magnesium transversal and sequential gearbox that’s capable of throwing down lightning quick shifts of only 20 milliseconds. A Bosch-developed traction control system for the Revolucion allows drivers to adjust the tri-million dollar car’s power and suspension setup to their own personal tastes through 12 different settings. Serious carbon ceramic brakes by Brembo help the thing stop when needed, while high performance rubber from Pirelli to the tune of 255/35/19’s on the front and 335/30/20’s out back help keep the car between trees at speed.
Stylistically, the car is more about extreme aerodynamic functionality and performance than it is about aesthetics. Yes the Revolucion is visually stunning, but details like the addition of new air deflectors up front and a vertical stabilizer out back are more about increased downforce and handling at speed than about visual impressions.
The Revolucion also features a nifty little aerodynamic device called a Drag-Reduction-System (DRS). Activated by a tiny red switch on the steering wheel, the DRS system allows drivers to adjust the angle of the rear wing either manually or automatically. When set to automatic mode, the car’s CPU determines the best wing angles based on critical inputs from a variety of sensors and road speed inputs. Nostrils built into the hood further assist with downforce and aerodynamics.
Although the car was to have stopped production last year it looks like Horacio Pagani and team might still build you a Revolucion to your liking for only $3 million. Visitors can see the Revolucion at Pagani’s booth at the Geneva Auto Show until the 16th.
Source: Pagani
